Birds of South India
Journey through India's South: wildlife encounters, bird watching, incredible scenery and insights into local rural life.
Gitanjali is a charming homestay set in a residential area of Mysore surrounded by tranquil gardens, run by a Kodava family from the minority community in the Kodagu district; a 'martial race' with a fascinating history and culture. They enjoy sharing their home with travellers and allowing them to experience Indian culture and hospitality, all while practising responsible tourism.
Boasting a comfortable and welcoming dining and living area, you’ll even spot several of their pet dogs and cats around the property, making it feel more like home. Staff aim to make your stay as comfortable as possible, while personalised yoga classes, Ayurvedic treatments and cultural evenings can be organised on request. Breakfast is a mix of Indian and Continental, while for dinner, authentic and delicious Kodava food is served using organic ingredients. The family love sharing food with guests, and an interactive Kodava cooking class, including dinner and a family recipe book, is also available. Your stay will be on half board, just ask your India expert if you'd like to change that though.
There are four large, separate rooms in a cottage-style unit, sharing a common verandah area overlooking the garden. They aren’t luxurious by any means but are spacious and comfortable.
For an authentic, peaceful and exclusive homestay experience in Mysore, Gitanjali comes highly recommended.
Homestay - What we mean by 'Homestay' is generally a large family owned house, still occupied by at least some members of the family. Interaction with guests is encouraged and is in fact unlikely to be avoided! These places always have bags of character are usually highly charming and can provide a fascinating shortcut towards understanding local life a little better. Facilities can range from the luxurious, to pretty basic and meals are generally taken as a group and served in the local style rather than from a menu. The service is almost always fairly quirky and idiosyncratic. Great fun.
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